Darwin Nunez’s future at Liverpool appears increasingly uncertain as the club actively pursues the signing of two new strikers ahead of the upcoming summer transfer window.
Since making the switch from Benfica in a high-profile $113 million (£85M) transfer three years ago, the Uruguayan forward has struggled to deliver on his promise, managing only 40 goals across 139 matches.
This campaign has been especially underwhelming, with Nunez netting just seven times across all competitions. His role has also diminished under new head coach Arne Slot, who has handed him just eight Premier League starts so far.
Liverpool are determined to strengthen their attacking options, and buying a new centre forward is on their shopping list. Should a new frontman arrive, Nunez will likely be sacrificed to make room.
Alexander Isak remains the dream target, but securing the Swedish international from Newcastle may prove challenging. Reports indicate the Magpies would demand in excess of $200M (£150M), prompting Liverpool to weigh other potential signings such as Lille’s Jonathan David and Hugo Ekitike of Eintracht Frankfurt.
David, who will be a free agent when his current deal ends this summer, has quietly developed into one of Ligue 1’s most consistent scorers. The 25-year-old Canadian international is on track for a third straight season with 26 goals in all competitions.
(Image: Jean Catuffe/Getty Images)
His looming availability has attracted attention across the continent. Arsenal, Chelsea, and Manchester United are believed to be monitoring his status, while Inter Milan have already made a lucrative proposal worth slightly more than $6.7M (£5M) annually. Nonetheless, Liverpool remain firmly in contention to secure the pacey striker, whose explosive speed makes him a major threat in the final third.
Hugo Ekitike is another option under consideration. The 22-year-old France U21 star has had a breakout year in Germany, notching 22 goals – 15 of which have come in the Bundesliga – ranking just behind Harry Kane, Patrick Schick, and Serhou Guirassy.
Often likened to Kylian Mbappe for his acceleration, dribbling, and physicality, the 6ft 2in forward combines athleticism and power effectively. However, with a contract at Frankfurt lasting until 2029, any transfer would require a sizable bid, with estimates placing his value above $103M (£77M).
(Image: Getty Images)
With just over a month until the transfer market reopens, Liverpool have time to work out how they want to play this. They’ve already alleviated some long-term concerns by extending the contracts of both Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk, potentially freeing up funds that were initially set aside for their potential replacements.
Having only added one senior signing – Federico Chiesa – this season, Liverpool are poised for a more active summer. With Trent Alexander-Arnold expected to complete a move to Real Madrid, finding a replacement at right-back will be crucial, while Bournemouth’s Milos Kerkez is currently the frontrunner for the left-back position.
The Reds are also eyeing reinforcements at centre-back, with Kerkez’s team-mate Dean Huijsen and Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi both being evaluated. Additional signings in midfield or out wide may also occur, depending on who departs the club.
